diff types of power
...Coercive Power Coercive power is the act of an individual in power to influence positive behaviour over another through means of threats and punishment for negative behaviour. In other words, coercive power influences others to do what the power holder desires by influencing another to avoid punishment. This power lacks social legitimacy. Without imposing fear or the use of force there would be no power. Referent Power Referent power is gained by individuals who are popular, well liked or possess a magnetic personality, thereby having an ability to influence others who perceive them in this light. Their power also comes from the position of social norms, wherein people seek approval through their association or adherence to the powerholder's views while overlooking their failures. Expert Power Expert power is gained through an individual's special knowledge or expertise. These individuals hold power over others who need their knowledge. For example, if an individual knows more than their boss, they gain the power of job security due to the concern of their boss over losing their service to the company. Dr. Ken Petrus also cites "information power", "tradition power", and "charismatic power", in his article "Power: Defintion, Typology, Description, Examples, and Implications." Dr. Petrus states information power as the power of knowledge an individual gains through priviledged access of privy information. It states that power of information may be used for personal devious gain if placed in the hands of the wrong people. A few examples given are access to national security data, corporate trade secrets, and juvenile court records. Dr. Petrus explains tradition power as the power to socially compel society to conform to traditional ways thereby, stifling innovation among people. Dr. Petrus also cites charismatic power as the ability of well liked, perhaps charming leaders to have a strong influence to society; such as, individuals who possess physical attractiveness or super confidence. As cited in the article "Power and Authority" (http://www.essaybank.co.uk/free_coursework/1923.html), Max Weber, states authority as split into three types: charismatic authority, traditional authority, and rational-legal authority. Charismatic Authority The first type, charismatic authority is similar to psychologists John French and Bertram Raven's "referent power" as cited above. It illustrates the power of charisma in leaders and its power to influence loyalty among followers. This article uses Hitler, Mother Teresa, Ghandi, and Margaret Thatcher as examples of charismatic leaders in history. Traditional Legitimacy Traditional legitimacy is Max Weber's second type of authority. It is based upon the belief in the sanctity of tradition, wherein, people will abide by the commands of leaders solely due to loyalty of tradition. An example is cited in regards to Britains monarchy and its inheritance of compliance in command. Rational-legal Authority Max Weber's final type of authority defined is rational-legal authority. This authority is based on logical reasons and rules that legally enforce others to obey. An example provided is in politics, wherein, the government is gr...